Engineered Hardwood Floors at Flooring Liquidators

Engineered hardwood flooring is a modern, versatile alternative to traditional solid hardwood. It is constructed from multiple layers of wood bonded together with adhesive under intense heat and pressure, featuring a genuine hardwood veneer on the top surface for an authentic look and feel.

The Structure of Engineered Hardwood

Understanding what is engineered hardwood begins with its composition. Unlike solid wood, which is one piece of milled lumber, engineered flooring has a layered structure:

• Top Layer (Veneer): This is the visible surface and consists of a thin slice of real hardwood. The thickness of this veneer is a key indicator of quality; a thicker layer, like the 4mm veneer on our Sherwood Forest line, allows for future refinishing.
• Core Layers: Beneath the veneer, multiple layers of plywood, high-density fiberboard (HDF), or unfinished hardwood are stacked and bonded in a cross-ply construction. This design is the source of the flooring’s enhanced stability.
• Base Layer: The bottom layer provides additional stability and often acts as a moisture barrier.

Key Advantages Over Solid Hardwood

The unique manufacturing process gives engineered hardwood several key advantages, making it a superior choice in many situations.

• Superior Stability: The cross-ply construction of the core layers significantly reduces the wood’s natural tendency to expand and shrink with changes in humidity. This stability prevents the boards from cupping or gapping, a common issue with solid hardwood.
• Moisture Resistance: While not fully waterproof, engineered hardwood can handle moisture much better than solid wood. This makes it a viable option for areas where solid hardwood is not recommended. For more details on choosing the right flooring for different rooms, see our guide on the best flooring for kitchens and bathrooms.
• Increased Durability: The layered construction results in a floor that is incredibly strong and stable. Some products feature waxed edges on the locking system, which prevents squeaking and enhances longevity by blocking moisture at the seams.

Installation and Versatility

One of the most significant benefits of engineered hardwood is its installation flexibility.

• Simple Installation: Most engineered floors use a click-lock system, similar to laminate, making it suitable for confident DIY enthusiasts. This process is generally faster and less complex than nailing down solid hardwood. For a deeper dive, compare the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional installation.
• Floating Floor System: It can be installed as a “floating floor,” meaning it can be laid directly over an existing subfloor, including concrete slabs.
• Use in Any Room: Its durability and moisture resistance allow it to be installed in almost any room of the house, from living rooms to basements and kitchens.

What to Look For When Choosing Engineered Hardwood

As a company that works directly with top Canadian and international manufacturers, we have the experience to guide our customers to the perfect product. When selecting engineered hardwood, consider the following:

• Species: The top veneer can come in many species, such as Red Oak, Hard Maple, and popular hand-scraped Acacia, each offering a unique grain and color.
• Veneer Thickness: A thicker top layer (3mm or more) allows the floor to be sanded and refinished, extending its life.
• Board Width and Thickness: Wider planks are currently popular, and overall board thickness (e.g., 5/8″) contributes to a more substantial feel underfoot.

Engineered hardwood flooring offers the beauty of real wood with enhanced performance. To learn more and explore our wide selection, visit a Flooring Liquidators location today.